School kids kit up to take part in weapon sweep

A group of school children got the chance to step into officers’ shoes as they kitted up and helped out with a weapon sweep.

As part of Operation Sceptre – a week dedicated to highlighting the work being done around knife crime – PCSOs from the city west district headed to Glenbrook Primary School and teamed up with a group of year 5 students.

With forensic gloves, evidence tubes, and two metal detectors in tow, the kids got the chance to sweep for any knives and experience a morning in the life of a police officer searching for dangerous weapons.

Finding a lighter, vape, and a pair of scissors during their search they also got the chance to ask questions about weapons and the dangers of carrying knives.  

It comes as the force is taking part in a national week of action all about highlighting the work being done around knife crime and educating young people on the devastating consequences of carrying a weapon.  

PCSO Rachael Mason, who works closely educating young people in the area, said:

“Activities like this are great for the kids to speak to us, ask us questions, and are a fun way to get the message across about trusting us, reporting any concerns, and teaching them about the devastating consequences using a knife can have.

“When the children found the pair of scissors their immediate thought was - these are school scissors they’re not a weapon.

“It’s so important that by carrying out these activities with schools across Notts we really emphasise that even though they may be ‘children’s scissors’ these still can be used as a weapon.

“Education is key when it comes to changing young people’s mindsets, so it’s great we get to join forces with schools and educate children about making the right choices.”

For more information about Op Sceptre, visit: Operation Sceptre | Nottinghamshire Police

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